TIRANA, August 3 – Isa Elezi, a lahuta player from Rugova in Kosova, says the traditional instrument has long inspired Albanian warriors and preserved the nation’s history.
Elezi describes the lahuta as more than a musical instrument. He says it carries centuries of values and traditions. According to him, its legacy is so rich that a master player can astonish even an academic audience.
Meanwhile, Elezi believes no one can become a true lahuta player without inheriting the tradition. He first learned to play when he was 5 years old. By the age of 8 or 9, he had already begun performing traditional songs.
In addition, he says he has memorised and performs more than 30,000 verses. Elezi argues that Albanian lahuta poetry has no equal in Europe. He adds that he could perform well beyond that number if given enough time.
The veteran musician also describes the instrument as a source of comfort. He says listening to lahuta performances has often helped him find peace and fall asleep during difficult moments in life.
Throughout his career, Elezi has taken part in every major folklore festival in the region and appeared at numerous international cultural events. Today, the lahuta forms part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage and enjoys protection from UNESCO.
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